2005 Dodge Caravan: Road Test
Archived Review
2005 Dodge Caravan ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $18,380 -$26,995
- Invoice: $17,341 -$24,696
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Dodge Caravan
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2005 Dodge Caravan includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Dodge Caravan from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Dodge Caravan, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Dodge Caravan help you decide if a 2005 Dodge Caravan is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| SE | Grand SE | Grand SXT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 4 | 5 | 4.2 |
Weak 4-cyl feels even more lethargic than its 11.3 sec 0-60-mph time suggests. The 3.3 V6 is OK in regular-length Caravan. Grands need the smooth, strong 3.8. Automatic transmission works well with all engines.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SE | Grand SE | Grand SXT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 5 | 4 |
Test Town & Country with 3.8 V6 averaged 18.5 mpg; expect about the same for similar Grand Caravan. Overburdened 3.3 should average 15-17 mpg in Grands. Test regular-length 4-cyl averaged 19.8 in city/highway mix. All use regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| SE | Grand SE | Grand SXT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.5 |
Grands smooth out bumps better than regular-length models, but all Caravans ride comfortably.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SE | Grand SE | Grand SXT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
Near-carlike stability in turns, though models with 16-inch tires have more grip and sharper responses than those with 15s. Fine around-town maneuverability and steering feel. Noticeable nosedive in sudden stops, but good braking power and pedal modulation, though both are better on models with 4-wheel disc brakes.
QUIETNESS
| SE | Grand SE | Grand SXT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Heavy crosswinds and highway-speed cruising elevate wind rush, and certain road surfaces bring out marked tire noise, but neither is prominent enough to disturb conversation. SE has less sound insulation than other models, and its 4-cyl engine is louder, more gruff than V6s.
CONTROLS
| SE | Grand SE | Grand SXT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.1 |
Gauges unobstructed. Controls generally easy to decipher, close to driver. Interior materials a sensible example of durable, attractive surfaces.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SE | Grand SE | Grand SXT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
Low step-in height, wide doorways. Fine head, shoulder room. Seats supportive, though taller drivers may wish for more leg room. Rear headrests can obstruct outward vision slightly. Power-adjustable pedals allow shorter drivers to sit farther from the steering-wheel airbag.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SE | Grand SE | Grand SXT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 7 | 6.7 |
Generous head, knee, and foot clearance in Grand SE. Grand SXT with the stowable seats has somewhat less leg room and skimpy toe room. Regular-length versions also tighter in 2nd and 3rd rows. Override feature allows power side doors to be easily closed or opened by hand.
CARGO ROOM
| SE | Grand SE | Grand SXT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 10 | 10 | 9.4 |
Regular-length models have tight cargo space with all seats in place. Extended's available Stow 'n Go seats fold easily into front and rear floorwells to lay flush with floor, though front seats must first be moved forward to fold 2nd row. With seats in place, 2nd-row floorwells provide about 12 cu ft of handy, covered storage. Rear well a boon to cargo space with 3rd row raised. Available power liftgate useful, reverses direction at slightest obstacle.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SE | Grand SE | Grand SXT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 10 | 5.8 |
The 2005 updates keep these Dodge and related Chrysler minivans among the class leaders for available convenience and safety features. Toyota's Sienna and Honda's Odyssey are their only real rivals for all-around appeal, and, in many respects, Grand Caravan blends Sienna's comfort-oriented approach with Odyssey's performance slant to create a tempting Best Buy mix of its own.
Total Score
| SE | Grand SE | Grand SXT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 58 | 67 | 69 | 57.8 |
Total Score: 65
Scores for all Minivans
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
